IWD – Female Leaders in Crypto

In honor of International Women's Day, we proudly showcase Lynsey Copping, our Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at M2, as a leading example of female leadership and success in the emerging fields of crypto and fintech. Lynsey's dedication and professionalism within the M2 organization mirror the aspirations and capabilities of women striving for recognition in these dynamic sectors. Her journey underscores not only her personal accomplishments but also serves as a source of inspiration, prompting us to celebrate the essential contributions and achievements of women in leadership positions across the finance and technology landscapes. 

Lynsey boasts an impressive résumé and brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to M2, with a rich background in investment banking, commodities, and virtual assets from major financial hubs such as London, New York, and the UAE. Join us for a candid Q&A as we delve into Lynsey's story and explore the valuable lessons and insights she has garnered throughout her distinguished career.  

1. The cryptocurrency industry has often been stereotyped as male-dominated. What are your thoughts on this, and have you seen any progress towards gender equality in the crypto space in recent years? 
   The issue of gender disparity isn't exclusive to cryptocurrency; it's prevalent across the financial sector, which has historically been male-dominated. However, we're witnessing a shift towards diversity. Traditional finance is gradually elevating women to high-ranking roles. 
   Despite being a relatively new sector, crypto is breaking down barriers, presenting a vibrant, inclusive environment especially at entry-level positions. This sector's agility and openness are inviting to those outside the conventional finance trajectory, paving the way for a more gender-balanced future. Within this evolving space, there's a growing recognition of the value diverse perspectives bring, offering women from various backgrounds the chance to thrive and shape the industry's progression towards equality. ‍
2. What unique opportunities does the fintech industry offer for women in finance? 
   The fintech industry, including crypto, stands out for its flexibility, which is particularly beneficial for women seeking work-life balance, especially those with families. Many fintech companies offer remote work policies, enabling women to manage professional responsibilities alongside family commitments, like school drop-offs, without sacrificing time with loved ones. Additionally, the industry's inclusivity extends to diverse skill sets. Individuals with backgrounds in tech, data intelligence, or marketing can find opportunities to transition from non-financial sectors into fintech. However, for more specialized roles, such as those requiring in-depth financial knowledge, the path may be more challenging due to the complexity of the sector. Nonetheless, fintech presents various avenues for women to leverage their skills and contribute significantly. ‍
3. Can you walk us through your typical day as CFO of a crypto exchange? How does your role differ from that of a traditional CFO, considering the unique aspects of the cryptocurrency market? 
   There truly isn't a "typical" day—each one brings new challenges and opportunities. In the startup environment so my mornings might focus on financial reporting and invoices, while afternoons could pivot to discussing new products, processes, or potential acquisitions. This diversity of tasks is a stark contrast to the more predictable routines seen in traditional finance roles, where established processes and a stable business environment make for more uniform days. The dynamic nature of the crypto market, with its rapid technological advancements and our organization's growth, ensures my role is both varied and engaging. ‍
4. Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology are constantly evolving. How do you, as CFO, stay ahead of the curve and ensure M2 is adapting to these innovations from a financial perspective? 
   To keep M2 at the forefront, I try to stay abreast of the latest market trends and technological breakthroughs. Always making sure I keep a finger on the pulse of the industry.  
   Networking is key—I regularly connect with peers and industry experts, drawing insights and sharing challenges, especially around the unique finance and accounting landscape of crypto, where traditional rules don't always apply. 
   Open communication is vital, not just within my team but across the entire company, facilitating a collaborative environment where we collectively assess how technological shifts impact our financial strategies and organizational goals. Essentially, it's the blend of staying educated, fostering teamwork, and leveraging a network of knowledge that empowers us to navigate this dynamic field with confidence and curiosity. ‍
5. What drew you to the world of cryptocurrency and finance? Can you tell us a bit about your career path that led you to become the CFO of M2? 
   I began my career as a chartered accountant, specializing in auditing for investment banks, I ventured into product control within an investment bank, dealing daily with complex financial products. This experience, gained in cities like London and New York and later expanded in Dubai, provided me with a deep understanding of regulatory reporting, business planning, and establishing new branches and processes. 
   My path has consistently involved shaping new ventures within established frameworks, a hybrid of banking and start-up culture. Transitioning to an oil futures exchange deepened my product expertise, and when an opportunity in the cryptocurrency exchange realm presented itself, I seized it. This move was driven by my recognition that the financial world was evolving towards technology-driven solutions, including crypto-based payment services. 
   The chance to join M2 as a start-up was particularly appealing because it offered the opportunity not just to apply my financial knowledge but to play a pivotal role in shaping the company from the ground up. The vision for what M2 could become intrigued me; it promised not just a traditional exchange but an innovative financial enterprise. The opportunity to influence and grow with a pioneering company like M2, and to make a significant mark on the industry, was irresistible, and I haven't looked back since. ‍
6. Looking ahead, what are your predictions for the future of cryptocurrency adoption and its impact on the global financial landscape? 
   I believe that cryptocurrency adoption will continue to rise, drawing heightened interest from institutions, hedge funds, family offices, and banks. Initially, the unregulated nature of cryptocurrencies presented a barrier for these entities. However, as regulatory frameworks are established, the space is becoming increasingly compelling for institutional investors. The evolving regulatory landscape is making it a more attractive and viable option, likely leading to a significant impact on the global financial ecosystem. ‍
7. For young women interested in pursuing careers in crypto finance, what skills and experiences do you believe are most important to cultivate?  
   Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in the rapidly changing crypto finance environment, especially within start-up culture where roles often require a hands-on approach. The ability to embrace change and adjust swiftly is essential, as the industry evolves at a breakneck pace. Additionally, a willingness to learn is vital due to the complexity of the field. Understanding the nuances can make navigating this space much more manageable and rewarding. ‍
8. In such a fast-paced industry, how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? 
   Balancing work and personal life in this industry takes a conscious effort. I've established routines, like setting aside specific times each week to connect with friends and family, which becomes a commitment I'm motivated to keep. This helps me maintain my social connections. 
   To manage my workload effectively, I've adjusted my office hours. By arriving early, I can focus on tasks uninterrupted and often leave earlier, which allows me to continue any necessary work from home. This schedule adjustment is key to ensuring I have time to spend with my family in the evenings. 
   I aim to adapt my work schedule to fit life's other demands, recognizing that while it's not always feasible, striving for this balance is important.